Libya: International community turns eyes toward HoR to uphold GNA

Libya’s international partners have their eyes turned towards the Libyan House of Representatives which has to endorse the Government of National Accord (GNA) announced on Tuesday before the GNA can be implemented.

Washington, UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), and EU welcomed the formation of the Libyan unity government and called on the internationally recognised House of Representatives (HoR) and its leaders to support the GNA. The HoR is one of two rival governments vying for power in Libya.

UNSMIL Chief Martin Kobler welcomed the announcement saying that it is sterling opportunity for the Libyan people to come together to build their country. He also urged the HoR to promptly endorse the bold move.

“I call on the members of the HoR and its presidency to uphold the country’s national interest above all other considerations and promptly convene to discuss and endorse the proposed cabinet,” he added.

Kobler’s statement was echoed by EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini who also hailed Prime Minister-designate Serraj’s daring move while placing further responsibility on the HoR.

“Libya is at a critical juncture,” she said before adding “and it is crucial that all key political and security actors uphold the interests of their country and its people above all others.”

Mogherini also pledged full support of the EU and that of all EU member states’ foreign ministers to the GNA immediately upon taking office.

According to the 2015 December 17 accord signed in Morocco, the HoR has ten days to vote the appointment of the GNA.

Reports quoting unconfirmed sources say the HoR is due to meet next Monday to vote the GNA.

The Libyan unity government to be led by a Presidency Council of nine members is made of 32 ministers including one woman.

According to Libya Herald, the 32 ministers were appointed in collaboration with the HoR members negotiating on behalf of their towns and areas.

U.S. State Department spokesman John Kirby indicated that Washington considered the composition of the GNA “a significant step forward on the path towards Libya’s peace and stability.”

He said the U.S. was “committed to providing the unified government full political backing and technical, economic, security, and counterterrorism assistance as requested.”